advanced reading copy of ADOPTING GRACE
17 of 186

As a teen and young adult, I had an unusual habit whenever I was in a department store. I enjoyed going to the baby shoes section and internally oohing and ahhing over the amazingly adorable mini sandals, moccasins, and tiny little dress up shoes. I babysat some, but my favorite times were when all the children were asleep, and I could just look at the toys and baby stuff and dream of my own future children. Sometimes, these imaginary children were adopted children. **** As I traveled away from my growing up home and toward a small liberal arts university, one that was in the midst of breaking ties with the religious denomination of my youth, I was anxious and thrilled at the same time. My parents gave me great voice and choice in this decision even though I imagined that deep down they were a little, or maybe a lot, afraid of what I might learn there. A few adults in my world warned me of the dangers of a liberal education. I quickly connected with a Christian fellowship on campus and began to find my places and spaces in this new home. I avoided most of the fraternity parties because of the teetotal religious teaching of my church. In time, I got involved in a church and joined a campus sorority so that I could be a good influence on the “heathens.” At one point, in order to participate in leadership, the adult leader of my college fellowship group called a meeting ADOPTING GRACE ADVANCED READING COPY 17